Modular High-Frequency High-Power Transformers for Offshore Wind Turbines

Conventional line frequency transformers are commonly used for wind turbines to step up the low-level voltage of the generators to reduce the transmission losses. However, they are not well suited for offshore wind turbines in terms of size, mass, cost of maintenance and the complexity of the wind turbine structure. Alternatively, to overcome these issues, modular high-frequency high-power transformers (HFHPTs) for modular DC-DC converters are introduced in this paper. Modular annular HFHPTs are also scalable in terms of size and power rating. The design method, design results and simulation results for a modular ferrite core transformer and a modular amorphous alloy core transformer are presented in this paper. A scaled-down isolation transformer is tested for the proof of concept.